U.S. patent application number 11/916245 was filed with the patent office on 2010-07-29 for image display device and image display method.
This patent application is currently assigned to SHARP KABUSHIKI KAISHA. Invention is credited to Takamasa Inoue.
Application Number | 20100188325 11/916245 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37481556 |
Filed Date | 2010-07-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100188325 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Inoue; Takamasa |
July 29, 2010 |
IMAGE DISPLAY DEVICE AND IMAGE DISPLAY METHOD
Abstract
An image display device adjusts display luminance in accordance
with a surrounding illuminance. Since the display luminance
considered to be appropriate differs depending on a user, the image
display device includes a display unit operating according to a
display luminance calculated based on the surrounding illuminance.
For example, in the image display device, a user can set a range of
the display luminance as a predetermined rule. The image display
device provides a user interface enabling a user to easily input
the predetermined rule or perform the setting input without being
aware of it. That is, when the surrounding illuminance is above a
predetermined illuminance, an input bar indicates only the range
where the maximum value can be set as an input screen and when the
surrounding illuminance is below the predetermined illuminance, the
input bar indicates only the range where the minimum value can be
set.
Inventors: |
Inoue; Takamasa;
(Ohtawara-Shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BIRCH STEWART KOLASCH & BIRCH
PO BOX 747
FALLS CHURCH
VA
22040-0747
US
|
Assignee: |
SHARP KABUSHIKI KAISHA
Osaka
JP
|
Family ID: |
37481556 |
Appl. No.: |
11/916245 |
Filed: |
May 30, 2006 |
PCT Filed: |
May 30, 2006 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2006/310714 |
371 Date: |
February 27, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
345/156 ;
345/207 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 5/58 20130101; H04N
21/485 20130101; G09G 2320/0626 20130101; G09G 3/3406 20130101;
H04N 21/4318 20130101; H04N 21/4532 20130101; G09G 2320/0606
20130101; G09G 2320/0613 20130101; G09G 2360/144 20130101; H04M
1/22 20130101; H04N 21/42202 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
345/156 ;
345/207 |
International
Class: |
G09G 5/00 20060101
G09G005/00; G06F 3/01 20060101 G06F003/01 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 2, 2005 |
JP |
2005-162747 |
May 26, 2006 |
JP |
2006-147087 |
Claims
1. An image display apparatus, comprising: a display unit, which
operates in accordance with calculated luminance; a detection unit
for illuminance, which detects a surrounding illuminance; a
calculation unit for display luminance, which calculates the
display luminance of the display unit based on the surrounding
illuminance detected by the detection unit for illuminance and on a
predetermined rule; a storing unit for rule, which stores said
predetermined rule; and a variation unit for rule, which varies the
rule stored in said storing unit for rule.
2. The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said
storing unit for rule further comprises, storing means for
candidate rule, which stores a plurality of candidate rules
utilizable for calculation as the predetermined rule by the
calculation unit for display luminance, and the calculation unit
for display luminance further comprises, selection means, which
selects a rule to be utilized as the predetermined rule from the
plurality of candidate rules stored in the storing means for
candidate rule.
3. The image display apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the
selection means acquires one or more than one of a combination of a
type of content to be a display object, a type of received
broadcast data to be a display object, control information of
displayed content correlated with the content to be a display
object, and control information of displayed broadcast data
correlated with the received broadcast data to be a display object,
thereby carrying out said selection in accordance with the
information of the acquired one or more than one combination.
4. The image display apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to
3, wherein said storing unit for rule further comprises, storing
means for luminance range rule, which stores a rule for determining
a maximum value and a minimum value of the display luminance
determined in accordance with the surrounding illuminance as the
predetermined rule.
5. The image display apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said
variation unit for rule further comprises external input means,
which utilizes user interface on the display; and variation means
for luminance range rule, which varies the maximum value and the
minimum value in accordance with the inputted value by the external
input means.
6. The image display apparatus according to claim 5, wherein said
variation unit for rule further comprises variation restriction
means dependent on illuminance, which restricts the variation by
the variation means for luminance range rule in accordance with the
surrounding illuminance detected by the detection unit for
illuminance.
7. The image display apparatus according to claim 6, wherein said
variation restriction means dependent on illuminance restricts the
variation, so that only the maximum value in the storing means for
luminance range rule is variable if the surrounding illuminance is
more than the predetermined illuminance, or restricts the
variation, so that only the minimum value in the storing means for
luminance range rule is variable if the surrounding illuminance is
less than the predetermined illuminance.
8. The image display apparatus according to claim 7, wherein said
external input means further comprises an input bar indicator,
which indicates an input bar indicating only an assignable range of
the maximum value as an input screen in cases where the surrounding
illuminance is more than the predetermined illuminance, or an input
bar indicating only an assignable range of the minimum value as an
input screen in cases where the surrounding illuminance is less
than the predetermined illuminance.
9. The image display apparatus according to claim 5, further
comprising: an operation unit based on instant reflection, which
operates the display unit displaying the user interface screen
based on the display luminance value calculated in accordance with
the rule varied based on the inputted value from said external
input means.
10. The image display apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the
detection unit for illuminance further comprises stopping means for
detection function, which turns off detection of illuminance in
cases where the varying process of the information for determining
luminance range in the rule stored in the storing unit for rule is
carried out based on the input from the external input means.
11. An image display method, comprising: a recording step, which
records in order to store a predetermined rule; a variation step
for rule, which varies the predetermined rule recorded and stored
in said recording step; a detection step for illuminance, which
detects a surrounding illuminance; a calculation step for display
luminance, which calculates display luminance of a display unit
based on the surrounding illuminance detected by the detection step
for illuminance and on the predetermined rule; and an operation
step for display, which operates the display unit in accordance
with the calculated luminance.
12. The image display method according to claim 11, wherein the
predetermined rule recorded in said recording step is a plurality
of candidate rules, comprising: a selection step, which selects a
rule to be utilized in the calculation step for display luminance
as the predetermined rule from the plurality of candidate rules
which have been recorded and stored.
13. The image display method according to claim 12, wherein the
selection step acquires one or more than one of a combination of a
type of content to be a display object, a type of received
broadcast data to be a display object, control information of
displayed content correlated with the content to be a display
object, and control information of displayed broadcast data
correlated with the received broadcast data to be a display object,
thereby carrying out said selection in accordance with the
information of the acquired one or more than one combinations.
14. The image display method according to any one of claims 11 to
13, wherein the predetermined rule recorded and stored in said
recording step is a luminance range rule, which stores a rule for
determining a maximum value and a minimum value of the display
luminance determined in accordance with the surrounding
illuminance.
15. The image display method according to claim 14, wherein said
variation step for rule further comprises, an external input step,
which inputs a value by means of an user interface on the display
unit, and a variation step for luminance range rule, which varies
said maximum value and minimum value in accordance with the
inputted value in the external input step.
16. The image display method according to claim 15, wherein said
variation step for luminance range rule is a variation step for
luminance range rule with restriction on variation dependent on
illuminance, which restricts variation in accordance with the
surrounding illuminance detected in the detection step for
illuminance.
17. The image display method according to claim 16, wherein said
variation step for luminance range rule with restriction on
variation dependent on illuminance restricts the variation, so that
only the maximum value in the luminance range rule is variable if
the surrounding illuminance is more than the predetermined
illuminance, or restricts the variation, so that only the minimum
value in the luminance range rule is variable if the surrounding
illuminance is less than the predetermined illuminance.
18. The image display method according to claim 17, wherein said
external input step displays an input bar indicating only an
assignable range of the maximum value as an input screen in cases
where the surrounding illuminance is more than the predetermined
illuminance, or an input bar indicating only an assignable range of
the minimum value as an input screen in cases where the surrounding
illuminance is less than the predetermined illuminance.
19. The image display method according to claim 15, further
comprising: an operation step based on instant reflection, which
operates the display unit displaying the user interface screen
based on the display luminance value calculated in accordance with
the rule varied based on the inputted value in said external input
step.
20. The image display method according to claim 15, wherein said
detection step for illuminance further comprises a stopping step
for detection function, which turns off detection of illuminance in
cases where the varying process of the information for determining
luminance range in the rule, which has been recorded and stored, is
carried out based on the input from the external input step.
21. The image display method according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
wherein said storing unit for rule further comprises, storing means
for luminance range rule, which stores a rule for determining a
maximum value and a minimum value of the display luminance
determined in accordance with one or more than one of the
combination of the type of content to be a display object, the type
of received broadcast data to be a display object, the control
information of displayed content correlated with the content to be
a display object, and the control information of displayed
broadcast data as the predetermined rule.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to an image display apparatus
displaying an image in accordance with inputted image data, and to
a method for adjusting display luminance of the image in accordance
with surrounding illuminance of the apparatus.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] It is known that the human eye has a high resolution
performance for brightness in low luminance light (dark light), and
a low resolution performance for high luminance light (bright
light). Therefore, the human can well perceive tone variation of an
image in a dark room (under an environment of low surrounding
illuminance), but cannot well perceive tone variation of an image
in a bright room (under an environment of high surrounding
illuminance). Further, it is pointed out that this effect on
perception of tone variation caused by the surrounding illuminance
is significant in the perception of the low-tone portion in an
image. In the Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication
No. 2004-272156, an image display apparatus, in which surrounding
illuminance of the apparatus is measured, and in the case of low
illuminance, display luminance of the low-tone portion in the image
display apparatus is reduced, and the image is displayed in small
tone variations (small luminance variation), and in the case of
high illuminance, display luminance of the low-tone portion in the
image display apparatus is increased, and the image is displayed in
large tone variations (large luminance variation), is
disclosed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] However, in the above image display apparatus adjusting
display luminance according to surrounding illuminance, a
deficiency exists in which the best display luminance differs from
one individual to another. Therefore, a user, who is unsatisfied
with the image display by the conventional image display apparatus
with a display luminance adjustment function, has no choice but to
switch off the display luminance adjustment function, or to watch
the image unsuitable for the user.
[0006] In order to solve the above deficiency, an aspect in
accordance with the present invention provides an image display
apparatus, comprising, a display unit, which operates in accordance
with calculated luminance, a detection unit for illuminance, which
detects surrounding illuminance, a calculation unit for display
luminance, which calculates the display luminance of the display
unit based on the surrounding illuminance detected by the detection
unit for illuminance and on a predetermined rule, a storing unit
for rule, which stores the predetermined rule, and a variation unit
for rule, which varies the rule stored in the storing unit for
rule.
[0007] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display apparatus, wherein the storing unit for
rule further comprises, storing means for candidate rule, which
stores a plurality of candidate rules utilizable for calculation as
the predetermined rule by the calculation unit for display
luminance, and the calculation unit for display luminance further
comprises, selection means, which selects a rule to be utilized as
the predetermined rule from the plurality of candidate rules stored
in the storing means for candidate rule.
[0008] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display apparatus, wherein the selection means
acquires one or more than one of a combination of a type of content
to be a display object, a type of received broadcast data to be a
display object, control information of displayed content correlated
with the content to be a display object, and control information of
displayed broadcast data, thereby carrying out the selection in
accordance with the information of the acquired one or more than
one combination of them.
[0009] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display apparatus, wherein the storing unit for
rule further comprises, storing means for luminance range rule,
which stores a rule for determining a maximum value and a minimum
value of the display luminance determined in accordance with the
surrounding illuminance as the predetermined rule
[0010] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display apparatus, wherein the variation unit
for rule further comprises external input means, which utilizes
user interface on the display; and variation means for luminance
range rule, which varies the maximum value and the minimum value in
accordance with the inputted value by the external input means.
[0011] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display apparatus, wherein the variation unit
for rule further comprises variation restriction means dependent on
illuminance, which restricts the variation by the variation means
for luminance range rule in accordance with the surrounding
illuminance detected by the detection unit for illuminance.
[0012] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display apparatus, wherein the variation
restriction means dependent on illuminance restricts the variation,
so that only the maximum value in the storing means for luminance
range rule is variable if the surrounding illuminance is more than
the predetermined illuminance, or restricts the variation, so that
only the minimum value in the storing means for luminance range
rule is variable if the surrounding illuminance is less than the
predetermined illuminance.
[0013] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display apparatus, wherein the external input
means further comprises an input bar indicator, which indicates an
input bar indicating only an assignable range of the maximum value
as an input screen in cases where the surrounding illuminance is
more than the predetermined illuminance, or an input bar indicating
only an assignable range of the minimum value as an input screen in
cases where the surrounding illuminance is less than the
predetermined illuminance.
[0014] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display apparatus, further comprising, an
operation unit based on instant reflection, which operates the
display unit displaying the user interface screen based on the
display luminance value calculated in accordance with the rule
varied based on the inputted value from the external input
means.
[0015] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display apparatus, wherein the detection unit
for illuminance further comprises stopping means for detection
function, which turns off detection of illuminance in cases where
the varying process of the information for determining luminance
range in the rule stored in the storing unit for rule is carried
out based on the input from the external input means.
[0016] In addition, as a method for causing a computer to carry out
the above image display, an aspect in accordance with the present
invention provides an image display method, comprising, a recording
step, which records in order to store a predetermined rule, a
variation step for rule, which varies the predetermined rule
recorded and stored in the recording step, a detection step for
illuminance, which detects a surrounding illuminance, a calculation
step for display luminance, which calculates display luminance of a
display unit based on the surrounding illuminance detected by the
detection step for illuminance and on the predetermined rule, and
an operation step for display, which operates the display unit in
accordance with the calculated luminance.
[0017] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display method, wherein the predetermined rule
recorded in the recording step is a plurality of candidate rules,
comprising, a selection step, which selects a rule to be utilized
in the calculation step for display luminance as the predetermined
rule from the plurality of candidate rules which have been recorded
and stored.
[0018] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display method, wherein the selection step
acquires one or more than one of a combination of a type of content
to be a display object, a type of received broadcast data to be a
display object, control information of displayed content correlated
with the content to be a display object, and control information of
displayed broadcast data, thereby carrying out the selection in
accordance with the information of the acquired one or more than
one combination of them.
[0019] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display method, wherein the predetermined rule
recorded and stored in the recording step is a luminance range
rule, which stores a rule for determining a maximum value and a
minimum value of the display luminance determined in accordance
with the surrounding illuminance.
[0020] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display method, wherein the variation step for
rule further comprises, an external input step, which inputs a
value by means of a user interface on the display unit, and a
variation step for luminance range rule, which varies the maximum
value and minimum value in accordance with the inputted value in
the external input step.
[0021] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display method, wherein the variation step for
luminance range rule is a variation step for luminance range rule
with restriction on variation dependent on illuminance, which
restricts variation in accordance with the surrounding illuminance
detected in the detection step for illuminance.
[0022] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display method, wherein the variation step for
luminance range rule with restriction on variation dependent on
illuminance restricts the variation, so that only the maximum value
in the luminance range rule is variable if the surrounding
illuminance is more than the predetermined illuminance, or
restricts the variation, so that only the minimum value in the
luminance range rule is variable if the surrounding illuminance is
less than the predetermined illuminance.
[0023] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display method, wherein the external input step
displays an input bar indicating only an assignable range of the
maximum value as an input screen in cases where the surrounding
illuminance is more than the predetermined illuminance, or an input
bar indicating only an assignable range of the minimum value as an
input screen in cases where the surrounding illuminance is less
than the predetermined illuminance.
[0024] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display method, further comprising, an operation
step based on instant reflection, which operates the display unit
displaying the user interface screen based on the display luminance
value calculated in accordance with the rule varied based on the
inputted value in the external input step.
[0025] Moreover, an aspect in accordance with the present invention
provides the image display method, wherein the detection step for
illuminance further comprises a stopping step for detection
function, which turns off detection of illuminance in cases where
the varying process of the information for determining luminance
range in the rule, which has been recorded and stored, is carried
out based on the input from the external input step.
[0026] According to the present invention having the above
configuration, for example, a user can watch an image, of which
display luminance is controlled within luminance arbitrarily
configured by the user in accordance with surrounding illuminance.
Therefore, it becomes possible to watch an image, of which display
luminance fits to the illuminance of environment, and according to
the user's taste. In addition, by means of a user interface
displayed by the above configuration, the user can set the above
predetermined rule without being conscious of setting the luminance
range etc.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] The present invention will become more fully understood from
the detailed description given hereinbelow and the accompanying
drawings which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are
not limitative of the present invention, and wherein:
[0028] FIG. 1 is a diagram for exemplifying user interface in an
image display apparatus of a first embodiment;
[0029] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the image display
apparatus of the first embodiment;
[0030] FIG. 3 is a diagram exemplifying a predetermined rule in the
conventional image display apparatus;
[0031] FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of another image
display apparatus of the first embodiment;
[0032] FIG. 5 is a diagram exemplifying a luminance range rule
varied by a variation means for luminance range rule in the image
display apparatus of the first embodiment;
[0033] FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing processing flow of the image
display apparatus of the first embodiment;
[0034] FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram of an image display
apparatus of a third embodiment;
[0035] FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram exemplifying a restriction on
variation of the maximum value of the display luminance in
accordance with the surrounding illuminance by the variation
restriction means dependent on illuminance in the image display
apparatus of the third embodiment;
[0036] FIG. 9 is a diagram exemplifying a display screen of the
user interface in the image display apparatus of the third
embodiment;
[0037] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram exemplifying another
restriction on variation of the maximum value of the display
luminance in accordance with the surrounding illuminance by the
variation restriction means dependent on illuminance in the image
display apparatus of the third embodiment;
[0038] FIG. 11 is a diagram exemplifying another display screen of
the user interface in the image display apparatus of the third
embodiment;
[0039] FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing processing flow of the image
display apparatus of the third embodiment;
[0040] FIG. 13 is a functional block diagram of an image display
apparatus of a fourth embodiment;
[0041] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing overall processing flow of
adjusting luminance in the image display apparatus of the present
invention;
[0042] FIG. 15 is a functional block diagram of an image display
apparatus of a second embodiment;
[0043] FIG. 16 is a conceptual diagram exemplifying a storing means
for candidate rule of the image display apparatus of the second
embodiment;
[0044] FIG. 17 is a conceptual diagram exemplifying the data
portion of digital broadcast wave including a type of content
acquired by the selection means in the image display apparatus of
the second embodiment;
[0045] FIG. 18 is a diagram exemplifying the hardware configuration
of the image display apparatus of the second embodiment;
[0046] FIG. 19 is a flow chart showing the processing flow of the
image display apparatus of the second embodiment;
[0047] FIG. 20 is a functional block diagram of an image display
apparatus of a fifth embodiment; and
[0048] FIG. 21 is a flow chart showing processing flow of the image
display apparatus of the fifth embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0049] Embodiments of the present invention will be described
hereinbelow with reference to the drawings. The present invention
is not to be limited to the above embodiments and able to be
embodied in various forms without departing from the scope
thereof.
First Embodiment
<Concept of First Embodiment>
[0050] FIG. 1 is a diagram for exemplifying user interface in an
image display apparatus of a first embodiment having a function of
varying display luminance in accordance with surrounding
illuminance. Concretely speaking, a schematic diagram exemplifying
a user interface for the user to arbitrarily set the upper/lower
limit of the adjustment range of the display luminance. As shown in
FIG. 1, the various setting items such as the color management
including hue, saturation, and brightness, and the active contrast
are indicated in a selectable state. Additionally, a setting item
`brightness sensor` for the user to arbitrarily set an adjustment
range of the display luminance is also indicated therein.
[0051] Here, for example, a user watches a movie on DVD in a dark
room. Then, the image display apparatus of the first embodiment
detects the darkness by means of a brightness sensor etc., and
carries out display, for example, at a setting value `-16 `, which
is a automatically reduced display luminance. However, the display
at the luminance of this setting value `-16 ` is too dark for the
user to watch. Therefore, the user calls up the above menu screen
as shown in FIG. 1 on the display through operation of remote
control, and selects the item `brightness sensor`. Then, the slider
bars for `setting maximum value` and `setting minimum value` as
indicated in FIG. 1 are displayed. The user moves the slider bar to
right or left, and sets the bar to the desired position, so that,
for example, it becomes possible to arbitrarily vary the setting
value from the initial value `-6 ` to `-12 `. Accordingly, the user
can watch the image at the desired display luminance.
<Configuration of First Embodiment>
[0052] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the image display
apparatus of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the `image
display apparatus` (0200) of the first embodiment comprises, a
`display unit` (0201), a `detection unit for surrounding
illuminance` (0202), a `calculation unit for display luminance`
(0203), a `storing unit for rule` (0204), and a `variation unit for
rule` (0205).
[0053] Note that, the functional block of the present system
described hereinbelow can be implemented by hardware, software, or
both hardware and software. Specifically, in the case of using a
computer, examples of the hardware component include a CPU, a main
memory, a bus, a storage device such as a hard disk or a
nonvolatile memory, a storage media such as CD-ROM or DVD-ROM, a
reading drive for the above media, a transmission/reception port
for various communications and printing device, and other
peripheral devices, and a driver program for controlling the above
hardwares, and other application programs, and an interface for
inputting information. The above hardware and software are used for
sequential execution of programs operated on the memory by CPU, for
processing, storing and outputting of the data inputted via the
interface, or for controlling the respective hardware
components.
[0054] Moreover, the present invention can be implemented not only
as a system, but also as a method thereof. Moreover, a portion of
such inventions may be configured as software. Furthermore, a
software product used for causing a computer to execute the
software, and the recording medium, in which the software is
installed, should be included in the technical scope of the present
invention (the same applies throughout the entire
specification).
[0055] The `display unit` (0201) is a display operating in
accordance with calculated display luminance calculated by the
after-mentioned calculation unit for display luminance (0203).
Examples of the display unit include non-luminescence type displays
such as a liquid-crystal display or a micro-mirror display, or
luminous type displays such as a plasma display, an
electroluminescence display, a field emission display, and a
fluorescent display. Further, for example, in the case of a
liquid-crystal display, this display unit has a configuration, in
which display luminance is adjustable by adjusting the amount
backlight, or by biasing input video signal etc., so that it
becomes possible to display an image in accordance with the display
luminance based on the calculation by the after-mentioned
calculation unit for display luminance.
[0056] The `detection unit for illuminance` (0202) has a function
of detecting a surrounding illuminance, and may be configured, for
example, by brightness sensor etc. for detecting surrounding
illuminance by means of a photoconductive element. An example of
the photoconductive element includes Cds cell, in which free
electron is generated in semiconductor in proportion to amount of
received light, and flow of electric current changes, thereby
lowering the resistance value. Of course, the brightness sensor is
not limited to this. The `surrounding illuminance` corresponds to
surrounding illuminance of the image display apparatus, and range
of the surrounding area is not limited. It is preferable that the
surrounding area is within a spatial range, which has an effect on
visual and auditory senses. This surrounding illuminance is
detected by means of the above brightness sensor, for example, a
dark room 0 lux, and outside of a house 600 lux. Of course, the
present invention is not limited to a method for directly detecting
surrounding illuminance by means of photoelectric conductive
element, and may be various methods, in which detection of
surrounding illuminance is carried out by detecting illuminance on
a display surface affected by surrounding illuminance.
[0057] The `calculation unit for display luminance` (0203) has a
function of calculating the display luminance of the display unit
based on the surrounding illuminance detected by the detection unit
for illuminance (0202) and on a predetermined rule. The
`predetermined rule` is a rule used for calculating the display
luminance, and is normally preset. Note that the display luminance
calculated by this calculation unit for display luminance may be a
luminance value of respective pixels, or may be a calculated value
as a representative setting value. In cases where the
representative setting value is calculated, correction of the
luminance value of the respective pixels is carried out in
accordance with the display luminance value (representative value)
upon outputting it to the display.
[0058] FIG. 3 is a diagram exemplifying a predetermined rule in the
conventional image display apparatus. As shown in FIG. 3, in the
conventional image display apparatus, for example, a rule, in which
if the surrounding illuminance is 500 lux, the setting value of
display luminance is `+16 `, is predetermined. Alternatively, a
rule, in which if the surrounding illuminance is 0 lux, the setting
value of display luminance is `-16 `, is predetermined. Therefore,
the setting value of display illuminance is acquired by the
calculation unit for display luminance based on the surrounding
illuminance detected by the detection unit for surrounding
illuminance and on the predetermined rule. Thus, the calculation by
the calculation unit for display luminance includes not only four
arithmetic calculations but also acquisition of data indicating
correspondence between the above surrounding illuminance and the
display luminance from database etc.
[0059] The calculation by this calculation unit for display
luminance is carried out as follows by means of the hardware
resource of the apparatus. At the outset, information to be a key
of starting calculation such as switching on of the image display
apparatus of the first embodiment is detected. Further, in
accordance with the detection, information, which specifies storage
area storing a program for calculating the display luminance, and
instructs reading, is outputted. Then, the calculation program
stored in a predetermined area of storage such as a hard disk is
operated on a work area in a memory in accordance with output of
this information, and is sequentially executed by central
processing circuit etc. Then, the execution of this calculation
program is carried out, so that numerical value indicating
surrounding illuminance detected by the detection unit for
surrounding illuminance and information indicating an address of
the storage area are stored in the predetermined area in the
storage area of memory.
[0060] Subsequently, information for instructing to specify and
read the storage area to acquire information indicating the
predetermined rule stored in the predetermined storage area of the
storage such as hard disk is outputted. Then, the information
indicating predetermined rule and information indicating an address
of the storage area are stored in another predetermined area in the
storage area of memory. In logical calculations by the CPU, the
numerical value indicating surrounding illuminance stored in the
predetermined area of memory and the numerical value indicated by
the predetermined rule are compared. Then, information indicating
setting value of the corresponding display luminance is acquired,
and is stored in the predetermined area in the storage area of
memory with information indicating an address of the storage area.
After that, the display luminance thus acquired is utilized for a
program for controlling adjustment of display luminance of the
display, so that it becomes possible for the image display
apparatus to display at display luminance in accordance with the
surrounding illuminance.
[0061] However, in cases where the user is not satisfied with the
image and its quality displayed at the display luminance adjusted
based on the setting determined by the predetermined rule, the
image display apparatus of the first embodiment may have a
configuration, in which a `storing unit for rule` (0204), and a
`variation unit for rule` (0205) are further comprised, so that the
user can arbitrarily vary the above-mentioned predetermined rule,
and the rule is updated and stored.
[0062] The `storing unit for rule` (0204) has a function of storing
a predetermined rule. An example of the predetermined rule stored
in this storing unit for rule includes information indicating a
formula f(x) for calculating a setting value of display luminance
from an illuminance value. An example of the formula includes a
formula `f(x)=32/500-16` if f(x) is a setting value of display
luminance, and x is surrounding illuminance. This is a case where
the setting value of display luminance, which has proportional
relation with the surrounding illuminance, is set. Of course, the
formula as a predetermined rule is not limited to the above
example, and a predetermined rule of another formula, which is
indicated by the following database, in which range of surrounding
illuminance and setting value of display luminance are correlated.
For example, a predetermined rule indicated by correlation of data,
in which if the surrounding illuminance is 0-100 lux, the setting
value of display luminance is `-16`, and if the surrounding
illuminance is greater than 500 lux, the setting value of display
luminance is `-16 `. The predetermined rule indicated by the above
formula f(x) or by the correlation of data is stored in the storing
unit for rule. For example, the above configuration is implemented
by storing into a predetermined address of a memory medium such as
a semiconductor memory or a hard disk drive. Further, the
predetermined rule thus stored in the storing unit for rule is
arbitrarily varied by a user and is updated in the after-mentioned
variation unit for rule.
[0063] Note that the `storing unit for rule` of the image display
apparatus of the first embodiment may further comprise a `storing
means for luminance range rule` (not shown). The `storing means for
luminance range rule` has a function of storing a luminance range
rule. The `luminance range rule` is a predetermined rule for
determining a maximum value and a minimum value of the display
luminance determined in accordance with the surrounding
illuminance. According to this, for example, it becomes possible to
complete the after-mentioned variation of predetermined rule in the
variation unit for rule just by setting the maximum and minimum
values by the user.
[0064] The `variation unit for rule` (0205) has a function of
varying the rule stored in the storing unit for rule (0204). For
example, the variation in this variation unit for rule is carried
out by a method, in which a formula g(x), a new predetermined rule,
is acquired via network etc. from external apparatus, and a
predetermined rule stored in the storing unit for rule is updated,
thereby varying the rule. Alternatively, a method, in which the
predetermined rule is varied by updating the numerical value
indicating the correlation between the surrounding illuminance
range and the display luminance data to the numerical value
inputted by operation of a keyboard or button of a remote control
etc., may be used.
[0065] In addition, variation of luminance range rule stored in the
storing unit for luminance range rule may be carried out by this
variation unit for rule. For this purpose, the image display
apparatus of the first embodiment may further comprise the
following functional block as shown in FIG. 4.
[0066] Therefore, the image display apparatus of the first
embodiment comprises the above-mentioned `display unit`, the
`detection unit for surrounding illuminance`, the `calculation unit
for display luminance`, the `storing unit for rule`, the `variation
unit for rule`, and the `storing unit for luminance range rule`.
Additionally, the `variation unit for rule` (0405) further
comprises an `external input means` (0405a), and a `variation means
for luminance range rule` (0405b).
[0067] The `external input means` (0405a) has a function, for
example, of inputting value by means of user interface on the
display. An example of this `user interface` utilized by the
external input means includes GUI (Graphical User Interface) as
shown in FIG. 1. In the user interface of FIG. 1, for example,
display for a user to arbitrarily set the maximum and minimum
values for determining the luminance range as a predetermined rule
is carried out by moving the input bar such as a slider bar
indicating luminance range. Of course, in this user interface, if
the maximum value to be set is less than the minimum value, problem
is caused in adjustment of the display luminance, so that a
configuration, in which if such setting is done, a warning is
indicated, or the range of moving the bar indicated in the input
bar for setting the maximum value is restricted so as to be greater
than the minimum value set before the setting of the maximum value,
may be used.
[0068] Further, in cases where the range of the maximum and minimum
values in accordance with the surrounding illuminance, which has
been set, is narrow, trouble such as flicker can be caused
depending on resolution of display luminance of a backlight or a
display. Therefore, a configuration, in which a predetermined
threshold etc. is provided, and such narrow range is detected, so
that a warning is indicated for variation of the value, or the
variation itself is impossible, may be used.
[0069] The `variation means for luminance range rule` (0405b) has
function of varying the maximum value and the minimum value in
accordance with the inputted value by the external input means.
[0070] FIG. 5 is a diagram exemplifying a luminance range rule
varied by a variation means for luminance range rule in the image
display apparatus of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5,
according to the luminance range rule, in cases where the
surrounding illuminance is greater than 500 lux, the setting value
of display luminance is `+16 `, and in cases where the surrounding
illuminance is 0 lux, the setting value of display luminance is
`-16 `. Here, by means of the above user interface, the maximum
value of the display luminance is set to `+12 ` and the minimum
value is set to `-8 `, thereby varying the luminance range rule.
Concretely speaking, this variation process of the predetermined
rule is carried out, for example, by varying the numerical values
of `slope` or `intercept` corresponding to the numerical values if
the predetermined rule is a formula f(x) (i.e., f(x)=20/500x-8).
Alternatively, if the predetermined rule is a rule indicated by
database correlating the surrounding illuminance range and the
setting value of display luminance, the variation process is
carried out by updating setting value of the display luminance of
the database.
[0071] Thus, if the variation in the variation unit for rule is a
variation to the luminance range rule stored in the storing unit
for luminance range rule, basically, it can be carried out just by
specifying variation to the maximum and minimum values of the
display luminance. Therefore, it becomes possible to simplify the
input items of the user interface, thereby reducing the input items
and the user's burden.
[0072] Note that this variation of the luminance range rule in the
variation unit for rule is carried out as follows by means of
hardware resources of the apparatus. At the outset, according to
the user's operation, a program, which is for displaying a menu
screen for various settings on the display, and for receiving
variations of setting, is operated in the work area in the memory,
and is executed by a central operational circuit, so that the menu
screen as shown in FIG. 1 is displayed. Subsequently, in order to
acquire the numerical value indicating the maximum and minimum
values of the above luminance range respectively stored in a
predetermined area of storage device such as a hard disk,
information for specifying the respective storage areas, and for
reading instructions. Therefore, the respective information
indicating the above maximum value and minimum value are stored
with the respective information indicating the addresses of the
storage areas into the respective predetermined areas. Then, the
respective values stored in the predetermined storage areas are
displayed on the screen by the above program for displaying menu
and for receiving setting variations.
[0073] Meanwhile, according to this program for displaying menu and
for receiving setting variations, the receiving of input of the
maximum and minimum values through the input device such as
keyboard or button of remote control is awaited. Subsequently, the
information of the values for updating the maximum and minimum
values through the above input devices such as keyboard or button
of remote control are inputted, and the inputted values are stored
with respective information indicating addresses of the other
storage areas into the other predetermined areas in the storage
area of the memory. Subsequently, for example, when new numerical
value is inputted for the maximum value, the maximum value stored
in the storage area in the hard disk is overwritten with the
inputted value stored in the predetermined area of the memory.
Thus, updating of the predetermined rule is carried out.
<Processing Flow>
[0074] FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing the processing flow of the
image display apparatus of the first embodiment. Note that the
following steps may be processing steps for configuring a program,
which is recorded in a medium to control a computer. As shown in
FIG. 6, at the outset, the predetermined rule is recorded to be
stored (step S0601). Subsequently, for example, when the values
such as maximum value and minimum value of the luminance range are
inputted by the user by means of the user interface, the
predetermined rule recorded and stored in step S0601 is varied
(step S0602). Subsequently, upon displaying the image on the image
display apparatus, the surrounding illuminance is detected (step
S0603), and if there is no variation, the display luminance of the
display unit is calculated based on the predetermined rule recorded
in step S0601, and on the surrounding illuminance detected in step
S0603, and if there is variation in step S0602, the calculation is
carried out based on the varied predetermined rule, and on the
surrounding illuminance detected in step S0603 (step S0604).
Finally, in accordance with the display luminance calculated in
step S0604, the display unit is operated (step S0605), so that
display of image at display luminance, which is adjusted to the
surrounding illuminance of environment, and suits the user's taste,
is carried out.
<Brief Description of Effects of First Embodiment>
[0075] As described above, according to the image display apparatus
of the first embodiment, it becomes possible for a user to
arbitrarily set, for example, the display luminance range adjusted
based on the surrounding illuminance according to the user's taste
or to eye-friendliness. Therefore, it becomes possible to carry out
display of image at display luminance, which is adjusted to the
surrounding illuminance of environment, and suitable for the user's
taste.
Second Embodiment
<Concept of Second Embodiment>
[0076] An image display apparatus of a second embodiment is
different from the first embodiment in that a plurality of
predetermined rules are preliminarily stored as the `predetermined
rule` in EEPROM etc. in a selectable manner. Therefore, the user
can easily enjoy the image, of which display luminance is adjusted
to the display luminance suitable for the surrounding illuminance
and for the content of image etc., just by selecting a rule he
desires from a plurality of candidate rules such as a `rule for
movie`, which is for adjusting display luminance suitable for a
movie, and a `rule for sports video`, which is for adjusting
display luminance suitable for a sports scene.
[0077] In addition, as to the variation of the predetermined rule
in the variation unit for rule described in the first embodiment,
setting of predetermined rule adjusted according to various
contents of image etc. can be easily carried out by carrying out
variation with respect to each plurality of candidate rules.
<Configuration of Second Embodiment>
[0078] FIG. 15 is a functional block diagram of an image display
apparatus of a second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15, an `image
display apparatus` (1500) of the second embodiment comprises, a
`display unit` (1501), a `detection unit for surrounding
illuminance` (1502), a `calculation unit for display luminance`
(1503), a `storing unit for rule` (1504), and a `variation unit for
rule` (1505). Additionally, although there is no illustration, the
`variation unit for rule` may further comprise an `external input
means`, and a `variation means for luminance range rule`. Note that
the above `display unit`, the `detection unit for surrounding
illuminance`, the `calculation unit for display luminance`, the
`storing unit for rule`, the `variation unit for rule`, the
`external input means`, and the `variation means for luminance
range rule` have been described in the first embodiment, so that
descriptions are omitted. In the image display apparatus of a
second embodiment, the storing unit for rule further comprises a
`storing unit for candidate rule` (1504a), and the calculation unit
for display luminance further comprises a `selection means`
(1503a).
[0079] The `storing means for candidate rule` (1504a) has a
function of storing a plurality of candidate rules. This storing
means for candidate rule can be implemented, for example, by local
secondary storage device of the image display apparatus such as
`EEPROM`, `hard disk`, `phase-change optical disk media`,
`nonvolatile memory`. Alternatively, this storing means for
candidate rule is arranged in the server on the network, and a
configuration, in which the image display apparatus of the second
embodiment accesses the storing means for candidate rule on the
server via the network, and the candidate rule is downloaded, may
be used.
[0080] The `candidate rule` is a rule utilized for calculation as a
predetermined rule in the calculation unit for display luminance
(1503), and examples of the rule set in accordance with the content
of image include the `rule for movie`, the `rule for sports video`,
and the `rule for game`. Further, examples of the rule for movie
include a `rule for horror movie` and a `rule for comedy
movie`.
[0081] Based on such rules in accordance with the content of image,
the image display apparatus of the second embodiment can easily
display image at the display luminance in accordance with the
surrounding illuminance and with the content of image, for example,
just by acquiring identification information of the candidate rule
selected by the user, or just by automatically acquiring
identification information of the content of image.
[0082] Of course, the plurality of candidate rules are not limited
to the above-mentioned candidate rules in accordance with contents
of image, and may be a candidate rule with respect to each input
interface for the image display apparatus such as `rule for HDMI
input terminal`, `rule for inputting PC`, and `rule for analog
tuner`. Alternatively, candidate rules with respect to each
broadcaster such as `telecast station A` or `telecast station B`,
candidate rules with respect to each broadcasting media such as `BS
digital/analog broadcasting` or `terrestrial digital/analog
broadcasting`, and candidate rules with respect to each image
quality standard such as `HD (High-Definition) broadcasting` or `SD
(Standard-Definition) broadcasting` are also cited.
[0083] FIG. 16 is a conceptual diagram exemplifying candidate rules
stored in a storing means for candidate rule of the image display
apparatus of the second embodiment. As indicated by FIG. 16 (a), an
example of the rule includes a rule for determining the maximum and
minimum values of the display luminance in accordance with a type
of content to be a display object. Concretely speaking, for
example, as to a rule for `dynamic mode` as the rule for sports
video, range of luminance setting values in accordance with
illuminance is `-16 to +16 `, and it is stored as a function fs(x)
having a slope indicating strong contrast. Therefore, upon watching
sports video, by utilizing this function, it becomes possible to
adjust to display luminance, at which even a dynamic image is
easily viewable.
[0084] Moreover, as indicated by FIG. 16 (b), as to the rule for
`movie mode`, for example, the range is `-16 to +8 `, and it is
stored as a function fm(x) having a slope indicating a weak
contrast. Therefore, it becomes possible to adjust to display
luminance, at which the contrast is weak and dark image can easily
be viewed. Moreover, as to the `game mode`, for example, the range
is `-8 to +8 `, and it is stored as a function fg(x), having a
slope indicating a weak contrast. Therefore, by utilizing this
function, it becomes possible to adjust to display luminance to a
level at which eyes do not become tired.
[0085] By utilizing such rules, it becomes possible to easily set
the maximum and minimum values in the rule for determining the
display luminance in accordance with surrounding illuminance just
by selecting, for example, the dynamic mode, the movie mode, or the
game mode.
[0086] Further, other than the above rules in accordance with the
content of image, a rule in accordance with a type of received
broadcast data to be a display object, with a type of output
destination of content to be a display object, with a type of image
quality standard of content to be a display object, or with one or
more combination of them may be stored. Concretely speaking, for
example, assuming that broadcast live of sports program is usually
watched if the input terminal is the `HDMI terminal 1 `, a
configuration, in which a function as indicated by FIG. 16 (a) is
stored as a candidate rule utilized for the calculation of the
display luminance in the inputted image, may be used.
[0087] Of course, as described in the first embodiment, the above
candidate rule can be arbitrarily varied by the user by means of
the variation unit for rule or of the external input means. In
addition, the candidate rule may be newly added and stored by an
`addition unit for new candidate rule` comprised in the image
display apparatus other than the variation by the above variation
unit for rule. Thus, the function of adding new candidate rule is
equipped, so that it becomes possible for a service provider to
provide a service such as network delivery of candidate rule
adjusted by an expert.
[0088] In the image display apparatus of the second embodiment, the
after-mentioned selection means selects a rule to be utilized as a
predetermined rule from a plurality of candidate rules thus stored,
and the calculation unit for display luminance calculates the
actual display luminance.
[0089] The `selection means` (1503a) has a function of selecting a
rule to be utilized as the predetermined rule from the plurality of
candidate rules stored in the storing means for candidate rule
(1504a). For example, this selection means is implemented by a
remote control, light-receiving unit of remote control, and an
operation panel etc., and user selects ad inputs identification
information of the candidate rule he desires by means of GUI etc.,
so that the rule is selected. Alternatively, a configuration, in
which identification information of image input interface of the
image to be displayed is automatically acquired, and a candidate
rule is selected in accordance with the identification information
of the image input source as indicated by FIG. 16 (b), may be
used.
[0090] Further, the selection means may acquire one or more than
one of a combination of a type of content to be a display object, a
type of received broadcast data to be a display object, control
information of displayed content correlated with the content to be
a display object, and control information of displayed broadcast
data correlated with the received broadcast data to be a display
object, thereby carrying out the selection in accordance with the
information of the acquired one or more than one combination. The
`type of content` is information indicating a type of content of
the image such as a horror movie, comedy movie, sports video, news
video, or game video. In addition, the `type of received broadcast
data` includes the type of broadcasting media such as `BS
digital/analog broadcasting` or `terrestrial digital/analog
broadcasting`, or the type of broadcaster such as `telecast station
(channel) A` or `telecast station B`. The `control information of
displayed content` and the `control information of displayed
broadcast data` are instruction information for controlling the
image display apparatus in accordance with the type of content or
the type of received broadcast data
[0091] Therefore, in the case of image acquired by reproducing a
media such as DVD, the identification information regarding the
genre of the image such as `movie` or `sports` is written in
read-in area of the DVD media, and the image display apparatus of
the second embodiment acquires the `type of content`, thereby
selecting candidate rule in accordance with the type of content as
indicated by FIG. 16 (a). Further, in the case of image of digital
broadcast wave, `type of content` described in BML (Broadcast
Markup Language) format in data portion included in the digital
broadcast wave may be automatically acquired, so that the candidate
rule is similarly selected in accordance with the type of
content.
[0092] FIG. 17 is a conceptual diagram exemplifying data portion of
the above digital broadcast wave. As shown in FIG. 17, the data
portion of the digital broadcast wave is configured by `header`,
`resource list`, and `BML document` as main portion of data etc.,
and genre information of the broadcast etc. as the `type of
content` is described in the `BML document`. Of course, information
described here may be information indicating type of received
broadcast data such as `BS digital broadcasting`, `terrestrial
digital broadcasting`, or `CS digital broadcasting`, or may be the
control information of displayed content and the control
information of displayed broadcast data for controlling the image
display apparatus of the second embodiment in accordance with the
above types.
[0093] As described above, according to the image display apparatus
of the second embodiment, it becomes possible to select a rule for
calculating the display luminance in accordance with the
surrounding illuminance by utilizing a candidate rule the user
desires, or a candidate rule in accordance with the automatically
acquired type of content etc. selected from a plurality of
candidate rules.
[0094] Moreover, the image display apparatus of the second
embodiment may further comprise `acquisition unit for information
of object in image`, and the `calculation unit for display
luminance` may comprise a `calculation means for display luminance
with respect to each object`. According to this, for example,
processing, in which information of object in the image such as a
person or a background is acquired by means of visual feature
description tool etc. of MPEG7, and the display luminance is
calculated, so that the central object such as a person looks
brighter than background object, becomes possible.
<Hardware Configuration of Second Embodiment>
[0095] FIG. 18 is a diagram exemplifying hardware configuration of
the image display apparatus of the second embodiment when the
functional respective components are implemented as hardware. By
means of FIG. 18, operation of the respective hardware components
in adjustment of display luminance will be described taking a
liquid-crystal display as a display unit for example.
[0096] At the outset, the image data to be displayed on the display
including RGB signal, vertical and horizontal synchronizing
signals, and time information is inputted in a LCD controller
(1801). The LCD controller outputs signal line control signal
including RGB signal to a signal line driving circuit (1802) based
on the inputted image data. Further, scanning line control signal
is outputted to a scanning line driving circuit (1803), and image
display in a liquid-crystal display (1807) is carried out.
[0097] Further, in a hard disk drive (HDD: 1812), a plurality of
candidate rules are stored, and any one of them is stored in a
predetermined area in a memory (1809) as a predetermined rule.
Subsequently, a value indicating the surrounding illuminance
measured by a sensor for amount of light (1811) is stored in
another predetermined area in the memory. After that, a program for
controlling luminance is operated on a CPU (1808) and is executed,
so that display luminance value is calculated by four arithmetic
operations by means of the values indicating the predetermined rule
and the surrounding illuminance. Subsequently, based on the
calculated display luminance value, the LCD controller controls an
inverter circuit (1805) for backlight to adjust driving power via a
backlight control circuit (1804), thereby adjusting backlight
luminance of a backlight (1806).
[0098] Here, menu indication signal is outputted from the input
device by pressing a menu indication button of an input device
(1810). Subsequently, by receiving this menu indication signal, GUI
for selecting candidate rule is indicated on the display, for
example, by OSD processing. Subsequently, the user operates the
remote control watching the GUI, selects a candidate rule he
desires, for example, `rule for movie`, and presses the input
button. Therefore, the image display apparatus receiving the
selection signal by the `input device` reads a predetermined
function fm(x) etc. as a corresponding candidate rule from the
`HDD`, and stores it as a predetermined rule into a predetermined
address in the `memory`.
[0099] Alternatively, by automatically acquiring the `type of
content` etc., recorded in the digital broadcast wave received by a
`tuner`, not indicated, or in the read-in area of a DVD media put
in a `DVD drive`, the corresponding candidate rule may be read from
the `HDD`, and may be stored into the predetermined address in the
`memory`.
[0100] Subsequently, the value indicating the surrounding
illuminance measured by the sensor for amount of light is also
stored in another predetermined area in the storage area of the
memory. Subsequently, by calculation in CPU, the setting value of
the display luminance is calculated based on the predetermined rule
fm(x) stored in the predetermined area in the memory, and on the
value indicating the surrounding illuminance. Subsequently,
luminance control of the backlight based on the calculated setting
value of the display luminance is carried out, thereby carrying out
image display at the luminance based on the surrounding illuminance
and on the predetermined rule selected from the candidate rules.
Note that in the second embodiment, although control of the
luminance is carried out by controlling the luminance of the
backlight, of course, it is not limited to the above, and may be
various luminance controls such as a luminance control, in which a
slope indicating gamma characteristic of the liquid-crystal panel
is controlled to be the calculated setting value of display
luminance, or a luminance control by varying an luminance value of
image data.
<Processing Flow>
[0101] FIG. 19 is a flow chart showing the processing flow of the
image display apparatus of the second embodiment. Note that the
following steps may be processing steps for configuring a program,
which is recorded in a medium to control a computer. As shown in
FIG. 19, at the outset, a plurality of candidate rules are recorded
to be stored (step S1901). After that, for example, if variation
information is inputted with respect to each candidate rule by the
user by means of the user interface, the candidate rule recorded
and stored in step S1901 is varied and is recorded.
[0102] Subsequently, upon displaying the image on the image display
apparatus, the surrounding illuminance is detected (step S1902).
Subsequently, a rule to be utilized as a predetermined rule is
selected from the candidate rules recorded in step S1901 (step
S1903). Note that, in the selection, one or more than one of a
combination of a type of content to be a display object, a type of
received broadcast data to be a display object, control information
of displayed content correlated with the content to be a display
object, and control information of displayed broadcast data
correlated with the received broadcast data to be a display object
may be acquired, thereby carrying out the selection in accordance
with the information of the acquired one or more than one
combination. Subsequently, calculation of the display luminance of
the display unit is carried out based on the surrounding
illuminance detected in step S1902, and on the rule selected as the
predetermined rule in step S1903 (step S1904). Finally, in
accordance with the display luminance calculated in step S1904, the
display unit is operated (step S1905), so that display of image at
the display luminance, which is adjusted to the surrounding
illuminance of environment, and suits the content, is carried
out.
<Brief Description of Effects of Second Embodiment>
[0103] As described above, according to the image display apparatus
of the second embodiment, it becomes possible to select a rule for
calculating the display luminance in accordance with the
surrounding illuminance by means of a candidate rule user desires,
or of a candidate rule in accordance with a type of content
automatically acquired from a plurality of candidate rules.
Third Embodiment
<Concept of Third Embodiment>
[0104] The image display apparatus of the third embodiment is
different from the first embodiment in that the variation of the
maximum and minimum values of the rule stored as the luminance
range rule is restricted in accordance with the surrounding
illuminance. Concretely speaking, for example, if the surrounding
illuminance of environment is above the standard, the image display
apparatus adjusts the display luminance to be brighter, and sets
only the maximum value without setting of the minimum value. Thus,
the variation of the luminance range rule is restricted in
accordance with the surrounding illuminance, thereby reducing the
input items according to the condition of illuminance, and the
user's unnecessary burden. In addition, this enables reduction of
display items in the user interface, and the small number of items
enables variation of setting of rule without making the user
conscious of operation.
<Configuration of Third Embodiment>
[0105] FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram of an image display
apparatus of a third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, an `image
display apparatus` (0700) of the third embodiment comprises, a
`display unit` (0701), a `detection unit for surrounding
illuminance` (0702), a `calculation unit for display luminance`
(0703), a `storing unit for rule` (0704), and a `variation unit for
rule` (0705). Additionally, the `variation unit for rule` may
further comprise an `external input means` (0705a), and a
`variation means for luminance range rule` (0705b). Note that the
above `display unit`, the `detection unit for surrounding
illuminance`, the `calculation unit for display luminance`, the
`storing unit for rule`, the `variation unit for rule`, the
`external input means`, and the `variation means for luminance
range rule` have been described in the above embodiment, so that
descriptions are omitted. In the image display apparatus of a third
embodiment, the variation unit for rule further comprises a
`variation restriction means dependent on illuminance` (0705c).
[0106] The `variation restriction means dependent on illuminance`
(0705c) has a function of restricting the variation by the
variation means for luminance range rule (0705b) in accordance with
the surrounding illuminance detected by the detection unit for
illuminance (0702). Examples of this restriction on variation
include a restriction, in which if the surrounding illuminance is
above a predetermined illuminance, only the maximum value included
in a storing means for luminance range rule (0704a) is variable, or
a restriction, in which if the surrounding illuminance is below a
predetermined illuminance, only the minimum value included in the
storing means for luminance range rule is variable.
[0107] FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram exemplifying a restriction on
variation of the maximum value of the display luminance in
accordance with the surrounding illuminance by the variation
restriction means dependent on illuminance. As shown in FIG. 8, in
cases where the surrounding illuminance detected in the detection
unit for surrounding illuminance is, for example, above 300 lux,
the surrounding illuminance of the environment is sufficiently
bright, so that the necessity of adjustment of the display
luminance to minus value, and the variation of the minimum value
can be omitted, thereby being restricted. Consequently, only the
maximum value is varied, so that the setting value of the maximum
value is variable within the range of `+1` to `+16`.
[0108] Further, in such case where the restriction in accordance
with the surrounding illuminance is carried out, for example, the
following configuration as a user interface for varying only the
maximum value of the display luminance is cited. Therefore, it is a
user interface comprising an input bar indicator for indicating an
input bar indicating only the setting range of the maximum value as
an input screen in cases where the surrounding illuminance is above
the predetermined illuminance. The `input bar` has a configuration,
for example, in which there is a bar indicating the setting range
by its length, and the desired value is specified by sliding a
control on the bar up and down or right and left. FIG. 9 is a
diagram exemplifying a display screen of the user interface. As
shown in FIG. 9, when a tab of an item `image adjustment` (0900) is
specified, a slider bar as an `input bar` (0901) for adjusting
brightness is displayed on a display by an `input bar indicator`
(not shown). The user can specify the maximum value of the display
luminance he desires by moving a control (0902) for varying the
maximum value right and left. Further, this input bar is
characterized in that if the surrounding illuminance is
sufficiently bright, as shown in FIG. 9, the input bar for varying
the minimum value of the display luminance is omitted.
[0109] Of course, contrary to the above example, the restriction
may be a restriction, in which if the surrounding illuminance is
below a predetermined illuminance, only the minimum value included
in the storing means for luminance range rule is variable. FIG. 10
is a conceptual diagram exemplifying another restriction on
variation of the maximum value of the display luminance in
accordance with the surrounding illuminance by the variation
restriction means dependent on illuminance. As shown in FIG. 10, in
cases where the surrounding illuminance detected in the detection
unit for surrounding illuminance is, for example, above 200 lux,
the surrounding illuminance of the environment is dark, so that the
necessity of adjustment of the display luminance to plus value, and
the variation of the maximum value can be omitted, thereby being
restricted. Consequently, only the minimum value is varied, so that
the setting value of the minimum value is variable within the range
of `-16 ` to `-1`.
[0110] As a user interface in such case, a user interface
comprising an input bar indicator for indicating an input bar
indicating only the setting range of the minimum value as an input
screen in cases where the surrounding illuminance is below the
predetermined illuminance may be used. FIG. 11 is a diagram
exemplifying another display screen of the user interface
comprising an input bar indicator for indicating an input bar
indicating only the setting range of the minimum value. As shown in
FIG. 11, this input bar is characterized in that the input bar for
varying the maximum value of the display luminance is omitted, and
only the input bar for varying the minimum value of the display
luminance is indicated.
[0111] As described above, the variation of the luminance range
rule is restricted in accordance with the surrounding illuminance,
thereby reducing the input items according to the illuminance
condition of environment, and the user's unnecessary burden. In
addition, this enables reduction of display items in the user
interface, and the small number of items enables variation of
setting of rule without making the user conscious of operation.
<Processing Flow>
[0112] FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing processing flow of the image
display apparatus of the third embodiment. Note that the following
steps may be processing steps for configuring a program, which is
recorded in a medium to control a computer. As shown in FIG. 12, at
the outset, luminance range rule is recorded to be stored (step
S1201). After that, upon displaying the image on the image display
apparatus, the surrounding illuminance is detected (step S1202).
Subsequently, the variation range of the maximum or the minimum
value of the luminance range rule is restricted in accordance with
the surrounding illuminance detected in step S1202 (step S1203).
Subsequently, within the restricted variation range in step S1203,
when the value is inputted by means of the user interface (step
S1204), in accordance with the inputted value, the maximum or the
minimum value of the luminance range rule recorded in step S1201 is
varied (step S1205). Subsequently, if there is no variation, the
display luminance of the display unit is calculated based on the
luminance range rule recorded in step S1201, and on the surrounding
illuminance detected in step S1202, and if there is variation in
step S1205, the calculation is carried out based on the varied
luminance range rule, and on the surrounding illuminance detected
in step S1202 (step S1206). Finally, in accordance with the display
luminance calculated in step S1206, the display unit is operated
(step S1207), so that display of image at display luminance, which
is adjusted to the surrounding illuminance of environment, and
suits the user's taste, is carried out.
[0113] Of course, the processing flow of the third embodiment may
be a processing flow, in which step S1203 (the step, in which the
variation range of the maximum or the minimum value of the
luminance range rule is restricted in accordance with the
surrounding illuminance), step S1204, and step S1205 (the step, in
which the luminance range rule is varied by acquiring the value by
means of the user interface) etc. of the above processing flow are
excluded.
[0114] In this case, at the outset, luminance range rule for
determining the maximum and the minimum value of the display
luminance in accordance with the surrounding illuminance is
recorded to be stored. After that, for example, if the value
inputted by the user by means of the user interface on the display
unit is acquired, the maximum and the minimum value determined by
the luminance range rule, which has been recorded and stored, based
on the inputted value may be varied and recorded. Further, in the
variation of the luminance range rule, for example, the surrounding
illuminance is detected by a sensor, and in accordance with the
detected surrounding illuminance, the variation may be restricted.
Further, the restriction may have a configuration, in which if the
detected surrounding illuminance is above a predetermined
illuminance, only the maximum value included in the storing means
for luminance range rule is variable, and if the detected
surrounding illuminance is below a predetermined illuminance, only
the minimum value included in the storing means for luminance range
rule is variable. Further, as a user interface of the display unit
for enabling the variation in accordance with the restriction, a
user interface may have a configuration, in which an input bar
indicating only the setting range of the maximum value as an input
screen, or an input bar indicating only the setting range of the
minimum value as an input screen is indicated, thereby acquiring
the value inputted by means of the displayed user interface.
[0115] After that, upon displaying the image on the image display
apparatus, the surrounding illuminance is detected. Subsequently,
the display luminance of the display unit is calculated based on
the luminance range rule, and on the detected surrounding
illuminance. Finally, in accordance with the calculated display
luminance, the display unit is operated.
<Brief Description of Effects of Third Embodiment>
[0116] As described above, according to the image display apparatus
of the third embodiment, it becomes possible to reduce the input
items according to the illuminance condition of environment, and
the user's unnecessary burden. In addition, this enables reduction
of display items in the user interface, and the small number of
items enables variation of setting of rule without making the user
conscious of operation.
Fourth Embodiment
<Concept of Fourth Embodiment>
[0117] The image display apparatus of the fourth embodiment is
based on the image display apparatus comprising the storing means
for luminance range rule of the first or second embodiment. The
image display apparatus of the fourth embodiment has a function, in
which, as shown in FIG. 9 or 11, the control of the input bar of
the user interface is moved to the left, so that the movement is
reflected in real-time on the display luminance of the image
display, and the screen gradually becomes dark. Thus, the variation
of setting of the maximum and minimum values of the display
luminance is reflected in real-time on the display luminance of the
display, so that the user can set the maximum and minimum values
monitoring the actual display luminance.
<Configuration of Fourth Embodiment>
[0118] FIG. 13 is a functional block diagram of an image display
apparatus of a fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 13, an `image
display apparatus` (1300) of the fourth embodiment comprises, a
`display unit` (1301), a `detection unit for surrounding
illuminance` (1302), a `calculation unit for display luminance`
(1303), a `storing unit for rule` (1304), and a `variation unit for
rule` (1305). Additionally, the `variation unit for rule` may
further comprise an `external input means` (1305a), and a
`variation means for luminance range rule` (1305b). Note that,
although it is not shown, based on the third embodiment, a
`variation restriction means dependent on illuminance` may be
further comprised.
[0119] In addition, the image display apparatus of a fourth
embodiment further comprises an `operation unit based on instant
reflection` (1306). The `operation unit based on instant
reflection` (1306) has a function of operating the display unit
displaying the user interface screen based on the display luminance
value calculated in accordance with the rule varied based on the
inputted value through the external input means. By this operation
at the display luminance calculated in accordance with varied rule,
the setting of the luminance range rule monitoring the actual
variation of luminance becomes possible, so that the user can set
the range according to the value suitable for his taste.
<Processing Flow>
[0120] The processing of the fourth embodiment including the
operation step based on instant reflection, which is for operating
the display unit displaying the user interface screen based on the
display luminance value calculated in accordance with the rule
varied based on the inputted value through the external input
means, in addition to the above processing of the third
embodiment.
[0121] Concretely speaking, for example, similar to the processing
of the third embodiment, at the outset, luminance range rule for
determining the maximum and the minimum value of the display
luminance in accordance with the surrounding illuminance is
recorded to be stored. After that, for example, if the value
inputted by the user by means of the user interface on the display
unit is acquired, the maximum and the minimum value determined by
the luminance range rule, which has been recorded and stored, based
on the inputted value may be varied.
[0122] After that, in order to instantly reflect the above
variation of the display luminance rule on the display luminance of
the display, the surrounding illuminance is detected, and the
display luminance of the display unit is calculated based on the
detected surrounding illuminance, and on the luminance range rule.
Subsequently, in accordance with the calculated display luminance,
the display unit displaying the screen of the user interface is
operated, thereby carrying out the processing of instantly
reflecting on the display luminance in accordance with the
variation.
<Hardware Configuration of Fourth Embodiment>
[0123] At the outset, the image data to be displayed on the display
including RGB signal, vertical and horizontal synchronizing
signals, and time information is inputted in a LCD controller
(1401). As shown in FIG. 14, the LCD controller outputs signal line
control signal including RGB signal to a signal line driving
circuit (1402) based on the inputted image data. Further, scanning
line control signal is outputted to a scanning line driving circuit
(1403), and image display in a liquid-crystal display (1407) is
carried out. Further, as described in the first embodiment, in a
hard disk drive (HDD: 1412), predetermined rule is stored in a
predetermined area in a memory (1409). Subsequently, value
indicating the surrounding illuminance measured by a sensor for
amount of light (1411) is stored in another predetermined area in
the memory. Subsequently, a program for controlling luminance is
operated on a CPU (1408) and is executed, so that display luminance
value is calculated by four arithmetic operations by means of the
values indicating the predetermined rule and the surrounding
illuminance. Subsequently, based on the calculated display
luminance value, the LCD controller controls an inverter circuit
(1405) for backlight to adjust driving power via a backlight
control circuit (1404), thereby adjusting backlight luminance of a
backlight (1406).
[0124] Here, menu indication signal is outputted from the input
device by pressing a menu indication button of an input device
(1410). Subsequently, by receiving this menu indication signal, as
described above, a program for displaying menu and for receiving
variation of setting is operated in the work area in the memory
(1409), and is executed by CPU (1408). Consequently, the menu
screen as shown in FIG. 1 is displayed. Further, the respective
information indicating the above maximum value and minimum value
are stored with the respective information indicating the addresses
of the storage areas into the respective predetermined areas, and
the respective values are displayed on the menu screen. Further,
the value indicating the surrounding illuminance measured by the
sensor for amount of light is also stored in another predetermined
area in the storage area of the memory.
[0125] In addition, when operation for moving the control for
setting the maximum value as shown in FIG. 1 is carried out through
the input device, the value indicating the setting value in
accordance with the movement position of the control is acquired
and is stored in the predetermined area of the memory. Here, in the
CPU, the program for controlling backlight luminance is executed,
and the setting value of the display luminance is calculated by
operation of CPU based on the setting value in accordance with the
movement position of the control stored in the predetermined area
of the memory, and on the value indicating the surrounding
illuminance.
[0126] Further, in the case of the image display apparatus of the
fourth embodiment, the luminance control of the backlight based on
the calculated display luminance according to the movement of the
control in real-time. Of course, it is not necessary to carry out
calculation of the display luminance value and the control of the
backlight in real-time upon the movement of the control, and a
configuration, in which the program for controlling backlight
luminance is executed by receiving an entry signal indicating that
a button for determining the setting of the menu screen is pressed
by means of the input device, may be used. Therefore, the maximum
and minimum values, which have been finally inputted and
determined, and stored in the predetermined area in the storage
area of the memory with the information indicating the addresses
are used for updating the maximum and minimum values, which have
been set before, and been stored in the predetermined area of the
memory, thereby varying the predetermined rule. Subsequently, upon
watching image, by means of the maximum and minimum values etc.,
which have been arbitrarily varied and set by the user, the image
display at the luminance controlled by the program for controlling
backlight luminance is carried out. Note that in the second
embodiment, although control of the luminance is carried out by
controlling the luminance of the backlight, of course, it is not
limited to the above, and may be various luminance controls such as
a luminance control, in which a slope indicating gamma
characteristic of the liquid-crystal panel is controlled to be the
calculated setting value of display luminance, or a luminance
control by varying an luminance value of image data.
Fifth Embodiment
<Concept of Fifth Embodiment>
[0127] The image display apparatus of the fifth embodiment is based
on the image display apparatus comprising the storing means for
luminance range rule of the first to fourth embodiments. In the
image display apparatus of the fifth embodiment, for example, when
the setting of the luminance range rule by means of the user
interface as shown in FIG. 9 or 11 is carried out, power supply to
the `sensor for amount of light` etc. as the detection unit for
illuminance is stopped, and the function is turned off, thereby
effectively saving energy.
[0128] Note that in cases where the function of the sensor for
amount of light is turned off, an adjustment of the display
luminance upon setting of the luminance range rule by means of the
user interface may not be carried out. Alternatively, by means of
the value, which has been detected just before the turning off of
the function of the sensor for amount of light, the image display
luminance may be adjusted in real-time according to the movement of
the control by the processing of the `operation unit based on
instant reflection` described in the fourth embodiment.
<Configuration of Fifth Embodiment>
[0129] FIG. 20 is a functional block diagram of an image display
apparatus of a fifth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 20, an `image
display apparatus` (2000) of the fifth embodiment based on the
image display apparatus of the first embodiment comprising the
storing means for luminance range rule comprises, a `display unit`
(2001), a `detection unit for surrounding illuminance` (2002), a
`calculation unit for display luminance` (2003), a `storing unit
for rule` (2004), and a `variation unit for rule` (2005).
Additionally, the storing unit for rule may further comprise a
`storing means for luminance range rule` (2004a). Additionally, the
`variation unit for rule` may further comprise an `external input
means` (2005a), and a `variation means for luminance range rule`
(2005b). Note that, although it is not indicated, based on the
third and fourth embodiments, a `storing means for candidate rule`,
a `selection means`, and a `variation restriction means dependent
on illuminance` may be further comprised.
[0130] In addition, the image display apparatus of the fifth
embodiment is characterized in that the `detection unit for
surrounding illuminance` further comprises a `stopping means for
detection function` (2002a).
[0131] The `stopping means for detection function` (2002a) has a
function of turning off detection of illuminance in cases where the
varying process of the information for determining luminance range
in the rule stored in the storing unit for rule is carried out
based on the input from the external input means (2005a). This
`turning off detection of illuminance` may be carried out by
various methods such as a turning off the detection function of
illuminance by stopping the power supply to the sensor for amount
of light as described above, or a turning off the detection
function of illuminance by blanketing the sensor for amount of
light.
[0132] Further, the adjustment of the display in the display unit
in cases where the detection function of illuminance is turned off
by this `stopping means for detection function` may be carried out
by a configuration as described above, in which an adjustment of
the display luminance upon setting of the luminance range rule by
means of the user interface is not carried out, or by a
configuration, in which by means of the value, which has been
detected just before the turning off of the function of the sensor
for amount of light, the image display luminance may be adjusted in
real-time according to the movement of the control by the
processing of the `operation unit based on instant reflection`
described in the fourth embodiment.
[0133] Note that this `stopping means for detection function` may
be implemented by a hardware configuration such as `CPU` for
receiving display signal etc. of `GUI for setting luminance range
rule` from the external input means, and `control circuit for power
supply` for receiving an instruction of stopping power supply to
the sensor for amount of light, which has been outputted from the
`CPU` in accordance with the reception of the display signal, and
for controlling the power supply. Subsequently, when the `CPU`
receives a signal indicating completion of setting and display of
the GUI for setting luminance range rule from the external input
means, an instruction of starting power supply to the sensor for
amount of light is outputted, thereby turning on the detection
function of illuminance.
<Processing Flow>
[0134] FIG. 21 is a flow chart showing processing flow of the image
display apparatus of the fifth embodiment. Note that the following
steps may be processing steps for configuring a program, which is
recorded in a medium to control a computer. As shown in FIG. 21, at
the outset, luminance range rule is recorded to be stored (step
S2101). After that, when the variation instruction for luminance
range rule is acquired (step S2102), for example, GUI is displayed
on the display (step S2103). Subsequently, according to the display
of GUI, when the detection function of illuminance is turned off
(step S2104). When the value inputted by means of the GUI is
acquired (step S2105), the luminance range rule is varied and is
stored according to the inputted value (step S2106). Subsequently,
the variation of the luminance range rule is completed, the
detection function of illuminance is turned off (step S2107), and
the calculation of the display luminance in accordance with the
surrounding illuminance of environment and with the predetermined
rule is carried out.
<Brief Description of Effects of Fifth Embodiment>
[0135] As described above, according to the image display apparatus
of the fifth embodiment, when the user carries out the setting of
the luminance range rule by means of GUI etc., power supply to the
`sensor for amount of light` etc. as the detection unit for
illuminance is stopped, and the function can be turned off, thereby
effectively saving energy.
[0136] The invention being thus described, it will be obvious that
the same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be
regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention,
and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in
the art are intended to be included within the scope of the
following claims.
* * * * *